This is the second in a series of outdoor redesigns and stagings. Often the last place considered for showcasing, the benefits of an outdoor room makeover can far outweigh the relatively little time needed to give the area style and impact. This is a particularly dramatic example of how truly functional and attractive an outdoor space can become with the right planning.
This backyard included two narrow patio spaces forming an L-shape that weren't being used to their full potential, a sloped grassy area and walk. The homeowner was planning to buy new furniture while it was on sale but didn't know what would work in the narrow space. There was a need for storage that had to be addressed. There were a few seating pieces that were in good condition and needed to be saved and possibly given new cushions to blend with the new furniture.
The space under the deck had become a magnet for bikes, sports gear, gardening equipment and mismatched outdoor furniture pieces. Because the patio spaces were narrow, an attempt had been made to make them look larger and be more useful by adding only small scale furniture. The problem was that the dining table and chair set did fit on the one patio, but getting in and out of the chairs could be awkward and dangerous because of the drop off to the walkway on one side. The area didn't appear to be very functional and was non descript.
After working with the clients to weed out items that hadn't been used for some time and other things weren't being kept for any particular reason, I devised an plan for keeping what was left in easy to access outdoor storage bin and boxes.
Found on sale, a weather resistant rattan-syle sectional with a rectangular ottoman/chaise extension and matching square ottoman/coffee table fit the budget and the multi-purpose need.
The new furniture was pulled out into the center of the patio and the chaise piece was used as a bench. This allowed a space for a large storage bin to be placed behind the sofa, out of site but easily accessible, as well as smaller storage bins. Arranged this way, the grouping was closer to the main patio and the house, yet far enough away from activity of the planned outdoor kitchen area, which had been the former catch-all storage space.
To the left of the photos you can see the edge of the four saved armchairs; another gathering space that would be color coordinated with the new furniture.
For the reveal, I brought out weather resistant accessories from inside the house and set up a party table in the area where the outdoor kitchen would be. The accessories were selected for durability and drama for the reveal. Even though indoor accessories may be made from weather resistant materials, I advise bringing in, covering or securing them for best results when not actively in use or needed. The accessories and plants add interest and texture to the arrangement, as do the pagoda candle holder and the various candlesticks. In the evening, battery operated candles provide safe, mood enhancing light.
This first phase set up the foundation for three distinct areas in this backyard, two patios and a grassy area for games and other activities. What was once a bland backyard after thought became a place to gravitate to for fun and relaxation.
Please click on the link to see the room transformation which allowed enough room for easily congregating in and between the two spaces, a peek of the repurposed seating pieces (before slip covers) and the possibility of a grilling area/outdoor kitchen in the future.
This problem was solved with a one day outdoor room makeover!
